If you’re not used to getting up before dawn to get your heart rate up, this will take some time to adjust to – one month to be exact. That’s how long it takes to make something a habit.
Jim Commentucci/The Post-StandardLisa Barnes, 31, of Syracuse
To make your morning workouts less stressful, take care of all the details the night before. Write your “To Do” list down with the workout neatly organized into separate tasks.

Next, pack your gym bag and lay out the clothes you plan to put on when you get up. Place everything by the door along with a granola bar or piece of fruit to consume on the road (if you need to eat).

When the alarm goes off, the only thing left to do will be to get out of bed and put your plan in action.

The first few weeks of training will feel disruptive to your lifestyle, and it’s natural to second-guess your goal in this period. Focus on the big picture and consider the first month anniversary of your training plan as an important milestone on the way to meeting your goal.

Tip: Celebrate your first month by purchasing a new water bottle or pair of shorts. Keep your training organized and fun, and you’ll soon forget where the “snooze” button is on your alarm clock.